Capen Hall is the university's focal point for administrative leadership and academic governance, including the president and the provost, as well as the University Honors College nd the Oscar A. Silverman Library.

Namesake

Samuel P. Capen (1878-1956), UB chancellor from 1922 to 1950, was one of the most remarkable figures in UB's history. Nearly 50 years after his death, he is still remembered for his keen intellect and decisive leadership. The university's first full-time chancellor, Capen developed a true university out of what had been a small collection of professional schools, integrating undergraduate education in a distinctive manner. Throughout his UB career, he championed academic freedom and was an innovator in liberal arts education. By the time of his retirement from UB, he was a nationally known authority on college and university planning.

Historical research and photographs provided by University Archives.

Building Facts

Primary function: Academic

Tenants: Office of the President, Office of the Provost, Undergraduate Library, Science and Engineering Library, University Archives, Undergraduate Admissions, International Admissions

Architect: Sasaki, Dawson & Demay

Completion date: June, 1977

Gross square feet: 310,576

Construction cost: $6,188,000